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Coffee is the most popular beverage in the world. It’s a drink that has been around for centuries, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. The average American drinks just over 3 cups daily, according to the National Coffee Association.
It’s no secret that drinking coffee is a morning ritual for many people. But what about the mugs we drink coffee from? They can leach lead and other chemicals from plastic into our favorite drink.
There are many different kinds of cups, from glass to ceramic mugs, and my current favorite is the stainless steel mug. You can watch my review of the stainless steel Keep Cup below.
Your go-to mug for coffee should be lead-free and should not leach chemicals into your drink, aka made of plastic. Your takeaway cup from the coffee stand is lined with a thin layer of plastic, making it essentially a plastic cup even though it may be made from paper.
I wrote an article about why plastic ruined my morning coffee here.
But if you are in the market for some great non-toxic coffee mugs, we’ve found twelve great mugs that fit the bill and will keep your coffee warm for hours.
Take a look at our best-rated, non-toxic coffee mugs and choose the one that’s perfect for you.
Quick Links:
1. KeepCup
2. Hydro Flask Flex Sip Coffee Mug
3. Yeti Rambler
4. Mexican Handmade Chocolate Mug from Verve Culture
5. Joco Glass Eco-Friendly Travel Mug
6. United By Blue Ceramic Mug
7. Zojirushi Stainless Steel Coffee Mug
8. Klean Kanteen Insulated Coffee Mug
9. Frank Green
10. Funkrin Cup
How can you tell if a mug has lead or cadmium in it?
The easiest way to test if your cups contain lead or cadmium is by purchasing a lead test kit. Clean your cup with distilled water and dry it thoroughly. Use the swipe from the test kit and run your test.
Did you know that coffee is actually acidic so it makes the mug leach lead or cadmium faster.
Alternatively, if the mug has designs inside, the paint’s likelihood of it containing a high lead amount is extremely high. If you feel a raise in the design, you can probably skip getting the test kit and use those cups as a pencil holder or for some nuts and bolts in your workshop.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Non-Toxic Coffee Mug?
Before discussing the best eco-friendly mugs to take on as your new daily companion, it’s essential to understand what makes a product eco-friendly.
- Products manufactured with very little negative influence on the environment are considered eco-friendly.
They could be made from recyclable or biodegradable materials like bamboo or glass. The production of items is done to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by manufacturers and designers.
First, you’ll be reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals. The average American consumes about 70.000 microplastic particles each year, this is because plastic is everywhere today and sadly we find it in our food too.
Learn how to avoid eating plastic and be more healthy !
Second, you’ll be helping the environment by reducing the amount of plastic waste produced each year. Americans throw away 50 billion coffee cups each year.
And third, you’ll be supporting companies committed to producing sustainable products.
What Are the Things to Look for When Choosing a Non-Toxic Coffee Mug?
The first is material. Ensure the mug is made from safe materials, like stainless steel or glass, ceramic or borosilicate glass. BPA-free plastic is usually just another way of saying we used a different chemical we don’t need to proclaim here. I would say stay away.
The second thing to look for is the ease of cleaning. Some mugs are dishwasher-safe, while others need to be hand-washed. If you’re not a fan of dishwashing, then go for a dishwasher-safe mug.
And finally, consider the design. Do you want a basic mug or one with a fun design? There’s no wrong answer, but choosing something you’ll enjoy using every day is important.
Here are some of the Best Non-Toxic Coffee Mugs on the Market.
1. KeepCup
Product Dimensions:
From 6oz/177ml all the way to 16oz/454ml
Product Features:
Comes in recycled plastic, tempered glass or stainless steel.
The finger band comes in recovered cork, recovered wood, silicone, or recovered corn from agricultural waste.
Care:
Take apart for easy clean hand wash the ring.
Cost:
From $30
KeepCup is the first reusable cup that meets barista standards and my favorite non-toxic coffee mug. Their selection of coffee cups is virtually unlimited; you could choose from glass, plastic (don’t), or stainless steel. They come in various bright colors too, or you can even create your own.
If you have been following me, you know that my go-to coffee mug is the KeepCup. If you haven’t not been following me, now is a good time to sign up for our newsletter and get some good news into your inbox.
A lifetime warranty backs every KeepCup since the company is aware that an environmentally friendly mug that leaks or is left unused contributes to the problem of global warming.
They also invest in a responsible supply chain, as well as local production, and they practice strict quality control. KeepCup is B-Corp certified and 1% of all sales revenue is given to protect the environment.
2. Hydro Flask Flex Sip Coffee Mug
Product Dimensions:
From 6oz/177ml all the way to 24oz/680ml
Product Features:
TempShield insulation keeps your drink cold or hot for hours.
Care
This product is not dishwasher or microwave safe.
Wash with hot water or soapy water.
Cost:
From $ 22.95
This is one of the top eco-friendly travel mugs listed on our here since it is synonymous with durable, temperature-controlled drinkware.
The Flex Sip Non-toxic Coffee Mug is ideal for any commuter or tourist seeking a reputable and well-known brand. The mug holds 12 ounces of your preferred beverage and is available in 8 distinct colors.
Although it is made for hot drinks, you can use it for any beverage you like. Because the Flex Sip mug’s lid is leakproof, you won’t have to worry about scalding yourself with hot water or coffee.
3. Yeti
Product Dimensions:
From 10oz all the way to 30oz
Product Features:
Double vacuum-insulated, non-toxic coffee mug mug.
Very customizable mug with a slider that comes in many different colors.
Not spill or leakproof.
Care:
Completely dishwasher safe
Cost:
From $ 25 on
The YETI Rambler is a great alternative for specialized drinks or daily water because it comes in sizes to meet any demand. Yeti has been in the game for a long time, mainly making some of the sturdiest cooler boxes.
You may know I take my Yeti bottle everywhere I go. It’s a strong build and does a great job at keeping my drink hot or cold.
4. Mexican Handmade Chocolate Mug from Verve Culture
Product Dimensions:
Each mug is appx 4’’ tall with 4″ diameter
Product Features:
Handmade in Mexico from red clay
Care
These hot chocolate mugs get better with time and care.
Cost:
From $ 20 for a set of two
Crafted with care and clay, these stunning handmade mugs add artisanal flair to your morning coffee routine. Skilled artisans meticulously shape each mug from natural terracotta clay in a small Mexican workshop, using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
The rich red hue of the raw clay provides an earthy, organic look. Simple yet elegant, these non-toxic coffee mugs have a classic tapered silhouette perfect for cradling in your hands.
As you enjoy daily cups of coffee or tea, the untreated clay naturally absorbs flavors and develops a unique patina over time. Like a favorite pair of jeans, the mugs become infused with memories.
And since they arrive in zero-waste packaging, you can feel good about their eco-friendly origins. Ready to be put to use or given as a thoughtful gift, these timeless mugs lend singular style to your shelves. Let heated water awaken the natural clay each morning, and savor artisanal craftsmanship with every soothing sip.
5. Joco Glass Eco-Friendly Travel Mug
Product Dimensions:
4oz to 16oz
Product Features:
Made from borosilicate glass. The Joco Glass is another classic coffee mug coming from Australia and it is loved by many.
Care
Dishwasher safe
Cost:
From $ 23.95
Joco’s glass non-toxic coffee mug is made from borosilicate glass like its competitor, KeepCup. The main difference is the design; and instead of using cork, recycled woodchips or even corn, Joco uses 100% food-grade silicon.
They are available in both Classic and Utility varieties, with the latter having a top with a straw and sipping options.
Both mugs are available in 6, 12, and 16 ounces. In comparison, the Classic reusable mug also comes in sizes of 4 and 8 ounces.
Joco glass mugs are completely devoid of plastic, non-toxic, resist stains and odors, and are antibacterial.
6. United By Blue Mugs
Product Dimensions:
16oz
3.75″H x 3.75″W
Product Features:
Glazed ceramic stoneware mug
All glazes are lead-free and food safe
The appearance of color glaze unevenness varies in each item
Care
Hand wash only
Do not use abrasive cleaners or steel wool
Cost:
From $ 32
United by Blue makes beautifully designed ceramic mugs responsibly made in China. They use food-grade glaze and lead-free ceramic, and for each mug purchased, they remove a pound of trash from our oceans and waterways.
The mug comes in eco-friendly packaging, and the company is a B corp.
7. Zojirushi Stainless Steel Coffee Mug
Product Dimensions:
12oz – 16oz
2.75″W x 9.13″H
Product Features:
Vacuum stainless steel insulation keeps beverages hot or cold for hours.
Durable and sanitary 18/8 stainless steel interior.
Wide mouth for large ice cubes.
Care
Hand wash only
Cost:
From $ 29
This is an excellent stainless steel non-toxic coffee mug for drinkers with a history of spills and leaks because their vacuum bottles prevent them.
There are more alternatives for mix-and-matching than one can count, so you’re likely to find a look that suits you.
Highly loved on Amazon. We just had to add it to this list. It also comes with a 5-year warranty.
8. Klean Kanteen Insulated Coffee Mug
Product Dimensions:
8oz – 16oz wide mouth insulated coffee mug.
2.75″W x 9.13″H
Product Features:
Made from certified 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel
You can choose between leak- proof Café Cap with an easy-carry swivel loop
Care
Dishwasher safe
Cost:
From $ 13.95
Another well-known brand of insulated mug on the market is Klean Kanteen. Klean Kanteen mugs are renowned for their long and narrow shape, making them certain to fit in your hand and any accessible cup holder.
These insulated mugs, which come in sizes ranging from 8 to 32 ounces, are perfect for all your favorite hot beverages and cold drinks.
Many stainless steel cup options are created from recycled materials, making them an even better option for individuals who seek to protect the environment.
There are two lid types for cold and hot drinks, and these non-toxic coffee mugs are available in a selection of vivid or subtle hues.
9. Frank Green
Product Dimensions:
10oz – 16oz
Product Features:
Tripple insulated. Ceramic lined. Spill-proof.
Care
It comes with different bases to choose from. The ceramic base is not dishwasher-safe or microwave-safe. All other parts are.
Cost:
From $ 34.95
If you like great design and functionality, Frank Green has got you. These reusable cups are stylish and triple-wall insulated. What I like is that they have coated the inside with ceramic to prevent any flavor change due to steel. (Not that I have ever noticed this on mine, but some people might).
Award-winning design and a one-press lid that prevents your coffee or tea from spilling all over you.
Another beautiful coffee-on-the-go mug from Australia. There are no limits to customizing your mug and
10. Funkrin
Product Dimensions:
22 oz, 2.4″W x 8.6″H
Product Features:
Double Wall Best Ceramic Thermos Mug. BPA-free lid, Non-slip silicone bottom, Screw on lid.
Care:
Do not freeze or put in the Microwave
Cost:
From $ 22.99
Introducing the Funkrin-insulated non-toxic coffee mug, the superior choice for beverage enthusiasts. With its exceptional design, this mug promises to preserve the true taste of your beverages, thanks to its ceramic interior powder coating that prevents metallic taste and flavor absorption.
Experience hours of unchanged beverage temperature, as our mug’s double-wall vacuum insulation can keep drinks hot or cold for up to 4 hours. Its transport-friendly features, including the leakproof design and handle, ensure secure and easy transportation.
Reward yourself with a superior drink experience. Grab your Funkrin Insulated Coffee Mug now and say hello to flavor-rich, temperature-consistent beverages at your convenience.
FAQ:
I feel a lot of people are worried about the taste of stainless steel in their coffee, and I have to say that it is a personal preference. I drink a lot of coffee, and I love using my stainless steel mug. I do not feel like it makes my coffee taste like metal.
Why does coffee taste better in a ceramic mug?
Ceramic is a natural material that does not absorb any flavors and leaves your coffee tasting as smooth as coffee should.
Stainless steel can take on the flavor, making your coffee change taste over time. It is safe to put your hot coffee into stainless steel mugs; make sure to clean them out properly once in a while.
Final thoughts
It seems strange that we have to go and hunt for lead-free coffee mugs in today’s day and age. If you didn’t know about this, like me, before I started my research, you would have continued sipping your favorite beverage while slowly poisoning your kids and yourself.
I am very happy with my daily KeepCup routine, and I didn’t even know this was an all-over, healthier way to consume this hot liquid. So, I hope this list gave you an idea of a way to enjoy a non-toxic coffee or tea. If you prefer a cold drink in your mug or tumbler, why not check out this article about reusable ice cubes?
If you have a favorite I didn’t mention here, I would love to learn about it, so shoot me a message or leave a comment below.
ARE THERE ANY DISPOSABLE CUPS THAT DO NOT EMIT MACROPLASTICS INTO MY BODY WHEN HEATED ? I DRINK COFFEE EVERY DAY. I HAVE A DISABILITY THAT MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO HOLD A CUP (I HAVE BROKEN MANY CUPS & MUGS, EVEN BOROSILICATE GLASS). I ALSO LIKE MY COFFEE HOT AND STEEL CANNOT GO INTO THE MICROWAVE FOR REHEATING. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY SUGGESTIONS. THANK YOU
Hi, that’s a tricky one. I think your best bet is a steel cup like the one from KeepCup, and for reheating, you would have to transfer it into a glass or microwave-safe ceramic jug. That, to me, seems the only unbreakable option. Plus, if you use the KeepCup with the lid, your coffee stays hot for quite a while. Hope that helps.
Hi,
great article, found it very useful to get information on actual brands.
Would be great to receive some advice on the best non-toxic water bottles, too! 🙂
Hi, I am glad it could help. I have an article about alternatives to plastic bottles. And thanks for the input. I guess it’s back to work, then. 🙂
I don’t see any list of selected mugs here….
Are you on mobile or laptop? Everything seems to be working fine on my end.